Dunford Expresses Confidence, Urges Continued Vigilance

As long as the nation continues to foster capabilities that would counter threats posed by potential adversaries, the armed services will be ready, Marine Corps Gen. Joseph Dunford told an audience at the Reagan National Defense Forum in Simi, Calif., on Dec. 3. Citing Russia, North Korea, Iran and the Islamic State specifically, Dunford said, “I’m not saying that conflict with any of these four states is inevitable.” The key, Dunford said, is to be prepared with a wide range of capabilities. “If we fail to make he right investment now and we fail to make the adaptations necessary to be competitive, our advantage is going to continue to erode – as will our ability to lead,” Dunford told the audience.